INSA: President of the Indian National Science Academy (INSA), presiding over the opening session on the first day of the 2-day conference of Science-20 under G-20. Ashutosh Sharma said that the goal of science is to create a more sustainable, inclusive, and equitable future together with society. Pro. Sharma said that science and culture are interrelated. Culture determines the direction and limits of scientific research. The work of giving importance to scientific research is done by society.
In the current global environment, the exchange of ideas, mutual understanding, and alertness to social interests are important for cooperative and common development in the future. Representatives of the scientific community from G-20 countries invited states and international organizations to attend the conference on the theme “Connecting Science to Society and Culture” at Taj Hotel, Bhopal. Principal Secretary of Madhya Pradesh Science and Technology Department Mr. Nikunj Srivastava was present at the inauguration of the conference.
Pro. Sharma mentioned the challenges of the future, environmental change, data inclusion, the emergence of thinking machines, etc. These challenges can be faced with global cooperation and the activism of society. He emphasized the conservation of traditional knowledge of global cultures and their use in the development model. The development and universalization of scientific thinking are essential for informed decision-making. Globally, governments should make concerted efforts to promote scientific literacy. Efforts have to be promoted to motivate the next generation and provide opportunities to choose a career in the research field.
Involve all components of the society in scientific development- Prof. Ahmad Najeeb Burhani(INSA)
Indonesian Prof. Ahmed Najeeb Burhani called upon the global community to make efforts to increase the participation of all sections of society, especially women, for inclusive scientific development. Pro. Burhani said that traditional livelihood practices should be identified and appropriately used in the development model for sustainable development(INSA).
He mentioned the traditional “Sasi method” of fish farming by preserving the medicinal plant of Indonesia, the traditional agricultural method, and the marine ecosystem. During this, he also mentioned the idea of Mahatma Gandhi “Science without humanity is insignificant”. Pro. Burhani underlined the historical ties and solidarity between India and Indonesia(INSA).
Brazilian representative Prof. Reuben Olivan said that development policies should be formulated considering social problems as the basis. Recognition of traditional knowledge is important. Pro. Olivan mentioned the efforts being made in this direction in Brazil.
Working together is the greatest strength of humanity – Dr. Rajagopal Chidambaram
Dr. Rajagopal Chidambaram, awarded with Padma Vibhushan, in the opening talk of the theme of the conference, said that it is the responsibility of the scientific community to make efforts for the eradication of social problems. The scientific community should strive for problem-solving research. One should keep trying without waiting for the assurance of successful results. You said that the biggest strength of humanity is to work unitedly. A global community can get rid of community problems only through mutual cooperation. Pro. Chidambaram referred to the C-Flows technology prepared in collaboration with IIT Bombay for flood forecasting and management at IIT Delhi(INSA) and Chennai to assist the disabled.
Two theme sessions have been organized on the first day of the conference. These focus on science and technology for education and skills, law and governance, heritage and culture. The discussion will mainly focus on Frontier Technologies, Future Society and Artificial Intelligence for Society and Culture. In these sessions, subject experts will present their views on different topics. It is noteworthy that Science-20 is a science engagement vertical of G-20, which was established in the year 2017 during the chairmanship of Germany. It includes the scientific academies of all G-20 countries. The G-20, chaired by India, has Troika members along with Indonesia and Brazil(INSA). The main purpose of the Science-20 Engagement Group is to make consensus-based science-driven recommendations to policymakers.
Also Read: Experience The Best Of Monsoon At These 5 Places In Madhya Pradesh